Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips

Spring is such an incredible time to elope in Estes Park - there are fewer people, rates are cheaper, access into Rocky Mountain National Park is easier (no timed entry permits before mid-May!).

So if you’re looking to elope while surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, blooming wildflowers …. or possibly in the middle of a blizzard (lol), getting married in Estes Park in the Spring is the perfect season where you’ll get just that. Every single season. In one day. Possibly in one hour.

In this guide I’ll share everything you need to know about planning a spring elopement in Estes! From the best locations and what to wear, to tips that will help you make the most of the unpredictable, yet stunning, spring weather. Let’s dive in and get to planning your Estes Park spring elopement!

Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
 

Why Spring Is a Magical Time to Elope in Estes Park

Spring brings every single season to Estes Park. You get snow on mountain peaks (which always makes them look even bigger!), the first blooms of wildflowers, afternoon rain or snow showers. Spring offers a quieter, more intimate experience compared to the busy months in the summer. So Spring can be the perfect time for couples that want privacy and are up for a touch of adventure.

Early Spring (March to early April): Snowy. Basically winter still at higher elevations. Icy but packed down trails. You’ll want microspikes if you plan on doing any hiking! Moody alpine conditions, think fog, dustings of snow, all of the good things moody photos are made of. March and April are actually Colorados snowiest months! Conditions in town are usually clear of snow though except for when snowstorms come through.

Mid Spring (April - May): By mid to late May, the snow begins to melt out of the high country, especially around RMNP. Town streets are typically clear of snow but definitely expect the most random of weather to pop through. You’ll have mornings of sunny days in the 70’s where you can walk around in shorts, and then afternoons where it will sleet or snow and drop down to 30 degrees in an hour. Rocky Mountain National Park implements their Timed Entry Reservations around mid-May, and begin working on clearing Trail Ridge Road, a paved road that climbs to 12,000+ feet.

Late Spring (June): Wildflowers begin peeking out in some spots, snow begins to melt in the high country, and weather becomes a bit more predictable with afternoon storms (instead of snow showers). You’ll still have snow on the mountain peaks but things stay relatively calm at lower elevation. Rocky Mountain National Park requires timed entry permits to access the national park at specific times throughout the day.

 
Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
 

Spring Elopement Photo Inspiration

Imagine meeting up with your photographer at the trailhead at 4 am to hike to an alpine lake for sunrise. The weather the previous night said clear - but this is Colorado. So now it’s showing rain, possibly snow, definitely wind. But you’re down for anything - just like the day happened for these two.

 


What To Wear For a Spring Elopement

Layers

Because weather in the spring is so unpredictable (but also, sorta predictable in it’s unpredictable-ness), layers are key. You’ll definitely have a cool morning and evening. Rain and snow is definitely possible, and almost probable in the afternoon. If the sun is out, because you’re at such a high elevation, it will feel even warmer. But if there’s clouds, it’ll feel pretty chilly, even if it’s in the 70’s.

Footwear & Traction Tips

Even if trails are clear at lower elevation or in Estes Park, you’ll likely run into snow and ice at higher elevations and inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Microspikes or Yaktrax are your best friend for spring hikes in RMNP! You can rent them at local gear stores. And don’t forget waterproof boots - spring mud is very real.

 
Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
 

What Permits Do You Need for a Spring Elopement in Estes Park?

Spring elopements in Estes Park may require different permits depending on your exact location!

  • For locations inside Rocky Mountain National Park (Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, Lily Lake, etc) you’ll need a Wedding Ceremony Permit from RMNP. These wedding permits are SUPER limited (like 2 a day) and book out fast, especially for summer, but spring tends to have better availability.

  • For public open spaces like Knoll-Willows, you often don’t need a permit if you’re just eloping and not setting up structures, but it’s always good to double check with the town of Estes Park.

  • If you’re eloping at a private venue or your airbnb, permits aren’t typically required!

For more info on permits - check out my Full Guide to Eloping in Rocky Mountain National Park.

 
Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
 

Favorite Estes Park and RMNP Locations for Spring Elopement Photos

There are countlessss stunning spots that come alive in the spring around Estes. From the shores of Lake Estes, to hidden wildflower patches and iconic viewpoints.

Lake Estes

Super peaceful water reflections in the AM. Not the most insane mountain view, but easy and quick access from anywhere in town. Afternoon and evening means wind so for later elopements and weddings, expect some of those epic wind-blown hair vibes!

Lily Lake

Easily accessible in Rocky Mountain National Park, but access isn’t through the normal park entrances so you won’t have to worry about lines (not that there typically are lines in the spring anyways). Small mountain views, lots of walking paths so you can really get some privacy in a gorgeous spot any time of year. Lily Lake does require a wedding permit + reservation if you’re specifically looking to read vows + get married!

Bear Lake

Iconic views with easy access. Bear Lake does require a wedding permit + reservation if you’re specifically looking to read vows + get married!

Dream Lake

If you’ve got your microspikes ready and are down for possible blizzard conditions, Dream lake is a bit more adventurous with an incredible alpine lake as the backdrop of your photos. While you can’t get married here, you can hike up for portraits!

Sprague Lake

Calm waters framed by fresh greenery, tall pine trees, with mountains in the background. This easily accessible location also requires a wedding permit and reservation if you’re specifically looking to read vows and get married, but is accessible without one for just portraits as well.

Knoll-Willows Open Space

This incredible open space that was once going to be turned into an outlet mall (ew), is now an incredible and easily accessible open space with views of Estes Park and the surrounding mountains.

 
Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
 

Backup Plans for Spring Weather

  • Indoor options in Estes Park orrr your Airbnb/Lodging!

  • Covered locations that still allow for mountain views

  • Flexible elopement timelines (sunrise backup, moving ceremony time, etc)

 
Spring Elopement in Estes Park: Inspiration & Planning Tips
 

My Top Spring Elopement Tips

Planning ahead is kind of essential. That’s why it’s so cool to hire a local photographer for your elopement - we know the weather, we know the locations, andddd we know the backup spots for when the weather is just a little too sketchy to risk. We know the seasons, we know the quirks, and we’re here to make your day as chill as possible.

Estes Park Season Spring Vs Summer Comparison Chart
 

Let’s Plan Your Estes Park Spring Elopement

For more info on all the goodies like permits and full planning details, check out my complete Rocky Mountain National Park Elopement Guide.

All season snow is super common, see this gorgeous snowy sunrise elopement at Dream Lake!

Ready to Create Your Perfect Day Together?!

I’m not saying I have every scenic mountain pull-off in Colorado tattooed in my brain but…I might? I spend a lot of time out in the wild, chasing light and weather and scouting those perfect little nooks where you can say your vows without needing a 4-hour hike and a hydration pack.

So whether you’re dreaming of foggy alpine lakes, golden aspen groves, or just a chill, low-key ceremony with views that can only be found in Colorado, I’m here for it.

I’ll help with logistics, send (way too many) prep guides, be your behind the scenes hype woman while you get to have the best day ever with your favorite person ever. Because it’s all about making space for the real emotions and weird wonderful stuff that makes your connection yours. Less stress, more joy!

Sound like your vibe? Reach out and let’s start scheming!

 
 
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Spring Elopement in Estes Park Inspiration and Ideas
Spring Elopement in Estes Park Inspiration and Ideas
 
 

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Snowy Sunrise Elopement at Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park